Tearing Into Traditional Markets.(synthetic paper market)(Brief Article)(Statistical Data Included)

DEMAND IN THE U.S. $200-MILLION synthetic paper market is expected to grow 8.4%/year, to 166 million lbs by 2005, says a Business Communications Co. (BCC; Norwalk, CT) study. Synthetic paper is made from either polyethylene (PE), polypropylene, polystyrene, or polyethylene terepthalate combined with fillers such as titanium dioxide, calcium carbonate, or silicas.

Synthetic papers are growing the fastest in niche markets where moisture or other contaminants can damage traditional papers, BCC says. Major producers include PPG; Oji-Yuka (Tokyo) subsidiary Yupo; Nan Ya Plastics; ExoonMobil; and Arjobex, a three-way joint venture of BP, Arjo Wiggins (London), and Appleton …